Morris 10/4 Series II

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The ten horsepower bracket took a large slice of the UK market in the mid ‘30s with Austin, Morris, Ford, Vauxhall and Hillman all selling similar products head-to-head.

Morris introduced their medium sized 10/4 in 1933 and it proved a very successful formula with a conventional ladder chassis, side valve 1,292cc 4-cylinder engine and Lockheed hydraulic brakes. By 1935 Morris had rationalised their range, introducing the Series II 10/4 which used the same body and chassis as the Morris 12. Steel Easiclean wheels replaced the standard wires.

This charming 1937 Morris 10/4 Series II was purchased by the vendor locally as a winter project. In very sound and original condition, its engine was not happy after more than 70 years of faithful service and was making some rather nasty noises. The vendor, a professional engine builder by trade, removed the unit and gave it a thorough overhaul.

The crank was reground and the white-metal on the mains and big-ends replaced. Upstairs, the block was rebored and four new pistons fitted. Now restored to fine fettle, it is ready for the next 70 years, although it has only covered a few miles since completion so will require careful running-in before its 27bhp can be fully exploited.

The red leather interior is in good original condition, the car having a lovely patina throughout and now being ready for some gentle action over the busy summer show season.